2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 535 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (186 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 54 L |
